India : More places of worship to be energy efficient

The success of Badriya Masjid Karnataka in achieving the first IGBC certified structure has compelled more ad hoc buildings towards implementing green temples. The Indian Green Building Council is on their way to discuss this move with the trustees of Siddhivinayak Temple Mumbai in making more worship areas energy efficient.

According to Prem Jain, IGBC Chairman, places of worship will be the next focus to meet energy efficiency after their focus on government institutions, residential and other commercial buildings.

The move aims to insure the Siddivinayak Temple meet the energy efficiency target. Along with the target, IGBC also wants to apply proper waster management systems into the buildings.

Jain also explained that the implementation of cooling the building structure in Badriya Masjid through elements of nature has minimized solar heat gain, making it more energy efficient. The success of these pilot projects will further urge IGBC to apply similar practices in many places of worship across India.